Summary

A frank, funny, no-holds-barred memoir that reveals the Deal or No Deal host's ongoing struggle with OCD and ADHD - and how it has shaped his life and career.
Howie Mandel is one of the most recognizable names in entertainment - respected by his peers and beloved by audiences as the host of the enormously popular prime-time game show Deal or No Deal. With a career that spans three decades and many different show-business platforms - he's a renowned stand-up comedian who continues to perform more than 150 sold-out shows a year, he created the award-winning TV show Bobby's World, he's starred in feature films and the hit TV series St. Elsewhere, and he's also hosted his own daytime talk show - he's one of the most versatile performers anywhere. But there are aspects of his personal and professional life he's never talked about publicly - until now.
Eleven years ago, Mandel first told the world about his "germophobia." He's recently started discussing his adult ADHD as well. Now, for the first time, he reveals the details of his struggle with these challenging disorders. He catalogs his numerous fears and neuroses and shares entertaining stories about how he has tried to integrate them into his act. "If I'm making myself laugh," he writes, "then I'm distracted from all the other things going on in my head that are, at times, torturous." And he speaks frankly and honestly about the ways his condition has affected his personal life - as a son, husband, and father of three.
As heartfelt as it is hilarious, Here's the Deal: Don't Touch Me is the story of one man's effort to draw comic inspiration out of his darkest, most vulnerable places. It's sure to please Howie Mandel's legion of fans - and provide hope to the millions who strive to succeed in spite of OCD and ADHD.

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful

5 out of 5 stars
By
Dave
on
13-12-09

Everything You Never Thought You Wanted To Know

I've always found Howie Mandel somewhat amusing, and he's clearly a smart guy who has carved out an interesting and multifaceted career for himself. I can't say I was anxiously awaiting a Mandel biography, because I never really thought I wanted to know more about the guy. But I often like bios and comedy books that are read by the author (it's like a long comedy special), so I gave "Don't Touch Me" a try. And I actually really enjoyed it.

First, it is a fast-paced, entertaining bio with the occasional guffaw-worthy moment (although not many, probably by design). Some of the attempts at humor are a little lame and even blatantly stupid, although Mandel has made a comedy career out of milking every excriciating drop of funny out of overtly stupid humor. I hate to admit that I find his rubber glove over the head routine funny, but it really (kinda) is. But I was surprised to find that the most compelling parts of this book were the serious segments that weren't meant to be funny at all. I learned things about him that I didn't know I cared about, and while nothing has changed in my life or his as a result of learning those things, it was a very enjoyable way to spend a few hours.

One of the biggest surprises was how much of a jerk Mandel was to his friends, family and fans, particularly for a guy who seems so amiable and always has a warm friendly smile on his face whenever you see him. It's one thing for celebrities to admit to some debilitating illness, addiction or challenge --- don't pity me; I've just had to learn to bear my burdens! -- and Mandel's severe OCD certainly qualifies as a challenge. But his willingness to show himself as a real tool and not go out of his way to excuse it was rare and even a bit refreshing. Most of all, it made for very compelling listening.

A surprisingly good audible book!

OK, I can't even imagine someone else narrating this book. I bought this because I do like celebrity bios. I was not a fan of Howie's, although I was interested in his OCD. I was amazed at how candid he was. He truly was a jerk. I'm shocked that he admits this. BUT, he does have some nice sides to him, that make him more likeable. His wife truly does deserve an award! I bet if I had read this book, I would have put it down. I listened to this book all in one sitting. He was hilarious! And adding little side bits to the book, was great. I love hearing how the celebrities had to struggle early in their lives, makes them more human. I would recommend this audible book, as it is a great listen, had me laughing at many instances. Only Howie could have read this. Any other narrator would have killed the book.